Garrett Motion, formerly known as Honeywell Turbo Technologies, is one of the most important global turbocharger manufacturers, with deep roots in engineering and innovation. The company's origins date back to the 1930s, when engineer Cliff Garrett founded "Garrett AiResearch" in the USA in 1936. The company's first products were designed for the aerospace industry, but later, recognizing the potential of internal combustion engines, the organization shifted its focus to the development of turbochargers. In 1954, Garrett introduced an innovative turbo solution for diesel engines to Caterpillar. Since then, the brand has increasingly strengthened its reputation as a reliable supplier of turbos and compression systems, serving both passenger car and heavy-duty equipment markets.
Over a long period, the company underwent several reorganizations – Garrett became part of AlliedSignal, which was later acquired by Honeywell, giving the company better access to global markets and new technologies. In 2018, the company began operating under the name Garrett Motion, retaining its experience, expertise, and legendary brand name, while gaining greater independence in making technological and business decisions. Today, the company conducts research and manufacturing in various regions of the world, focusing on innovations and sustainable future solutions, including not only traditional compressed air technology but also electric turbochargers, hybrid systems, and next-generation internal combustion engines.
One of the main reasons why Garrett Motion remains a leading name in the global turbo market is its wide range of innovations. The company invests heavily in improving aerodynamics to ensure that each turbocharger wheel is as efficient as possible. Additionally, lightweight and high-temperature-resistant materials (e.g., Inconel alloy) are used to reduce rotational mass and extend service life. Modern Garrett turbos feature variable geometry (VGT) technology, which optimizes airflow across a wide engine RPM range. This is particularly important in passenger cars, where drivers want to feel an immediate power boost as soon as they press the accelerator.
Additionally, Garrett is known for implementing ball bearing systems instead of traditional journal bearings, which significantly reduces friction and speeds up turbo response (reducing turbo lag). This technological solution is highly valued in motorsports and by tuning enthusiasts who seek maximum possible power with minimal delay. Particularly popular are the G-series, GTX, and GT platform turbos, designed for both small-displacement gasoline engines and massive diesel units. Some of these models reach extremely high rotational speeds, allowing for massive boost pressure without compromising durability.
Although Garrett Motion is often associated with the premium segment and high-performance technology, its product range actually covers the entire spectrum of vehicles. The company supplies OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) turbochargers to car manufacturers such as Volkswagen, Ford, Renault, General Motors, and many others. Thanks to close collaboration with global leaders, Garrett can quickly respond to new emission standards or other environmental directives, such as Euro 6 or Stage V, applicable to heavy-duty equipment.
Additionally, the company offers various sizes of aftermarket turbos for the tuning market. This means that car enthusiasts looking to increase engine power can easily find a Garrett turbo that meets specific power and response requirements. The GTX series is often mentioned as optimal for achieving extremely high power – up to 600, 700, or more horsepower – from a relatively small-displacement engine. These turbos feature advanced aerodynamic wheel designs and the ability to use large rotor diameters while maintaining compact external dimensions.
Garrett Motion products are often regarded as extremely high-quality and reliable, especially when it comes to resistance to high temperatures and continuous operation across a wide RPM range. These turbos are built with precise balancing and testing methodologies: even a few microns of deviation in the bearings can cause significant vibration, so Garrett prioritizes high-level precision. This manufacturing quality ensures that the turbo operates reliably for a long time, even under extreme conditions, such as in racing or sports projects.
However, one of the characteristics of Garrett products is their higher price, especially when compared to equivalents from some other manufacturers. Additionally, some advanced variable geometry or ball bearing technologies require more complex maintenance and specific know-how during repairs. This means that a high-end Garrett turbo that is improperly installed or maintained may lose its efficiency. Nevertheless, most motorsport teams, drift or rally-cross teams, and street car tuning specialists value Garrett for its exceptional dynamics, minimal turbo lag, and power reserves.
To remain at the forefront of innovation, Garrett Motion is experimenting with electric turbochargers (e-turbo), which help reduce the impact of turbo lag, as the electric motor can spin the compressor even before the exhaust gases sufficiently heat the turbine wheel. This is particularly relevant for hybrid vehicles, where electricity is regenerated during braking or by using excess energy. Such a solution can significantly improve acceleration, reduce emissions, and provide a smoother power curve.
In addition to electric turbos, the company is actively involved in hybrid powertrain research. While the traditional internal combustion engine is undoubtedly changing due to the growing demand for electric vehicles, Garrett aims to integrate its technologies into intermediate solutions where internal combustion is combined with electric power, maintaining efficiency, lower CO₂ emissions, and maximum driving pleasure. In this way, the company remains strategically important for both the current market and future automotive trends.
In summary, Garrett Motion (Honeywell) is not only a legendary turbocharger brand but also a symbol of continuous innovation, capable of adapting to the rapidly changing automotive and heavy-duty equipment markets. From early aviation engineering experiments to modern electric turbo technologies – the company's history is full of ambitious solutions that have had a significant impact on power generation and engine efficiency worldwide. Perhaps this is why the Garrett name in the automotive community is often associated with reliability, innovation, and energetic tuning potential, the limits of which are far from being reached.